Doctor Who Icon Returns in New Audio Adventure Release
ADN
A groundbreaking character from the Doctor Who universe is set to return in a new audio drama, offering fans a fresh story that revisits the legacy of the iconic science fiction series through a dynamic audio performance.
TL;DR
- Anneke Wills returns as Polly Wright in Doctor Who audio.
- Story tackles ecological themes in a futuristic UK city.
- Release marks the finale of Big Finish’s First Doctor trilogy.
A Heroine Returns to the TARDIS
After an astonishing six decades, Anneke Wills is set to step once again into the role of Polly Wright, a figure long cherished by fans of the cult British series Doctor Who. Known for her lively and determined spirit, Polly first joined the First and Second Doctors during the show’s 1960s heyday. Now, rather than on screen, her latest adventure unfolds through audio drama—a format increasingly embraced by followers eager for fresh narratives beyond television.
A New Adventure with Contemporary Resonance
The upcoming release, Doctor Who – The First Doctor Adventures: Beware the City of Illusions, is scheduled to launch in March 2026 through Big Finish Productions. Audiences will follow Polly as she delves into the secrets of a futuristic “eco-city,” purportedly designed to address the United Kingdom’s environmental challenges. Yet beneath its idealistic surface, this city—conceived by the enigmatic Gynt Foundation and its elusive patron, “Mr Hammond”—harbors sinister mysteries. In the words of Anneke Wills, returning as Polly, “No, she would not run a tea shop! She would save the planet!” This conviction underscores both her character’s enduring relevance and the story’s environmental undertones.
Nostalgic Surprises and Familiar Faces
Fans will find several nods to Doctor Who’s expansive lore. Temporal quirks mean Polly encounters the First Doctor—here played by Stephen Noonan (notably seen in The Great British Bake Off and Spooks)—who has yet to meet her from his own perspective. Another twist involves Dodo Chaplet, portrayed by Lauren Cornelius: an old companion whose new allegiances add an unpredictable layer to Polly’s mission.
A Fitting Finale for a Legendary Companion
In returning to Polly Wright’s journey through audio storytelling, Big Finish Productions shines a spotlight on her importance within the series’ rich history. Producer Mark Wright highlights that this episode blends action with emotional depth while honoring Anneke Wills’ legacy. Several factors explain this choice:
- The trilogy format allows deeper exploration of beloved characters.
- Audio drama opens new creative possibilities beyond television constraints.
- The finale offers both closure and celebration for long-time fans.
This story also serves as the culmination of the current trilogy of First Doctor adventures—a testament to how certain heroines remain vibrant and modern, even sixty years after their first step aboard the TARDIS.